Saint Andrew’s Net | June 2005 | Vol. XX No. 5 | Page 1

I know that it is not official, but I think it is safe to say that summer has begun. The sun is out longer, baseball is in full swing, and vacations are being planned. The biggest indicator for me that summer has begun is that the Browning family is beginning the countdown to the last day of school. These are what I call the dog days—those last few days that just seem to take forever. It takes every ounce of energy for children to finish their homework, parents are burned out making lunches that are never really eaten, and teachers—well, they just need a break! Summer is upon us, which means, hopefully, that everyone will get some time off from that which we need a break from.

Sometimes I think people think that churches close when summer arrives. God may need a break from us, but we need as much help as possible. The life of the church in the summer just has a different rhythm to it, just as Lent or Advent has its own unique rhythm. In the summer the choir takes a break, the Sunday School goes into its summer schedule, and bills still need to be paid. Yes, life at Saint Andrew’s will continue, but at the rhythm of summertime.

Summer means beach. On June 12th, Saint Andrew’s will be going to the beach. We are having our first annual Beach Party, and everyone is invited. I cannot think of a better way to kick off the summer than an afternoon at the beach with my Christian brothers and sisters. We will be at the beach in Corona del Mar. You can drive there yourself, or meet in the parking lot at church at 2:30 p.m., where we will be carpooling to the beach. The youth will have games planned for the children, and all will have fun.

By the time you get this newsletter, the new playground will be finished. Please feel free to walk around the Children’s Center and see the latest in playground equipment. Another exciting thing to share is that our kitchen is having a complete makeover. I will let you know when that is completed.

Summer is a time to relax, to get refreshed, to spend more time with your family, and to thank God for those joys that come from summer. Be safe, and be prayerful.